Connecting Podcasters & Guests
Profile artwork for jason clawson

jason clawson

“Rediscover happiness after loss through service and a strong support system. Heal from grief by giving back and finding fulfillment.”

Interests

About Me

In 2018, my life took an unexpected turn when my wife, Valerie, was diagnosed with stage 4 Colon Cancer. As a devoted husband and father, fear gripped me – fear for my family's future. The doctor's words echoed in my mind, "Jason, Cancer has a way of enhancing your life." Yet, at that moment, I couldn't fathom how.

After Valerie's diagnosis, the countdown began – we were told to expect just 2-3 hours for her life expectancy. Nine months later, I was saying goodbye at her funeral. Life's trials and heartache had transformed everything I knew.

Following her passing, support waned, leaving me feeling isolated. Those who had stood by me seemed to vanish, and I was left picking up the pieces on my own. Questions haunted me: "Where is everyone now? Does anyone still care? Where's my team? How can I face tomorrow?"

Amid the darkness, I questioned my own future: "Can I find happiness again? Can love truly bloom once more? Can I ever feel joy?"

As time went on, life became a struggle. Depression, isolation, and anxiety became my companions. Each day was a battle, and I felt powerless to fight it.

Even as a clinical therapist, my training fell short when it came to navigating my own emotions and struggles. I knew how to help others, but I was lost when it came to helping myself.

At my lowest point, I took a leap and sent out a "Hail Mary" message to friends, family, and neighbors – a plea for help. Their response formed my "Healing Team," bringing light back into my life and reminding me that I wasn't alone.

In the midst of the storm, a miracle shone through – I found love again. Kirsten, my sweetheart, walked into my life, bringing joy and a renewed sense of hope. Our path together had its own challenges; doctors told Kirsten she couldn't have children. But against all odds, Maisie, our miracle baby, blessed our lives. She's become the glue that's brought our blended lives together, a symbol of hope and resilience.

Driven by our experiences, my partner Wyatt Ernst and I co-founded Hope Kit, a mission to spread hope and healing. Our efforts touched lives across states and even countries. Through our work, we found our purpose in helping others navigate the complex waters of grief, illness, and mental health struggles.

But the journey doesn't stop there. Today, I'm on a new mission with Pretherapy Kit, a groundbreaking endeavor aimed at destigmatizing mental health and revolutionizing the therapy experience. It's about transforming apprehension into empowerment, and turning therapy readiness into a game-changing journey.

Life's challenges have molded me, inspired me, and empowered me to make a difference. From loss to love, heartache to hope, my journey has shown me the incredible resilience of the human spirit. Through Hope Kit and Pretherapy Kit, I'm committed to being a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change, proving that even the darkest moments can lead to the most transformative chapters of our lives.

With gratitude,

Jason Clawson






Discover More

Profile artwork for jason clawson
Found a match? Get the conversation flowing...